LEARNING TO USE THE INTERNET IN A DEVELOPING-COUNTRY - VALIDATION OF A USER MODEL

This article describes how a model of networked information resource u se was used in a study of Internet training for Namibian information w orkers, and how the study informed the model. The model is based on Aj zen's (1988) theory of planned behaviour and Klobas's (1997) planned b ehaviour in context (PBiC) model of networked information resource use . The model describes networked information resource use as a function of intention to use a networked information resource such as the Inte rnet or an intranet. It explains how attitudes towards outcomes of use , perceived control of use, social influences, and information resourc e quality together influence intentions to use a networked information resource. An e-mail survey and questionnaire based on the PBiC model were used to measure attitudes and intended Internet use among partici pants in a course for Namibian information workers being trained to tr ain others to use electronic information resources. This was the first group to undertake a substantial formal course of Internet user train ing in Namibia, at a time when Internet access was being extended to t owns and rural regions outside the capital city. All trainees referred to the value of the Internet as a source of information, while only o ne quarter were concerned about potential barriers to use. The trainee s' perceptions of Internet quality were mostly positive, with the most appreciated quality being the currency of the information. Perceived ease of use was relatively low. Perceptions of Internet quality appear to have two dimensions reflecting perceptions associated with working with the Internet and with the initial impact of the Internet. Intern et quality characteristics associated with initial impact were correla ted with intended use, but quality characteristics associated with wor king with the Internet over time were not correlated with intentions. Ongoing use of the Internet for work reflects attitudes to the Interne t more closely than perceived Internet quality characteristics. Attitu des associated with intentions to use the Internet include perceived u sefulness in work and career advancement, enjoyment of use, and a sens e that all necessary facilities for use are conveniently available. Tr ainers and educators who are trying to encourage ongoing Internet use among individuals and to promote more widespread use throughout a comm unity should pay attention to developing positive attitudes towards us e in their trainees.